Monday, December 10, 2012

Green Smoothies



Green Smoothies


I've seen a lot about green smoothies over the last couple months.  I'm so glad!  It's a fantastic way to add raw, dark leafy greens to your diet (perfect if you're pregnant or nursing!).  It's completely raw and dairy free too! 

I know you're thinking, "why on earth would I add spinach or kale to a perfectly good smoothie?".  Trust me, it's amazing!  My 5 and 1 year old LOVE them and so does my picky husband.  :)  You actually can't taste the greens at all!  Your body will thank you for it too!

So here's how I make green smoothies.

What you'll need:
Frozen Fruit Medley 
Spinach or Kale (or both)
Coconut Milk
Banana



 2 handfuls of greens (this equals about 3-4 cups)
1 banana cup up.  The riper, the better!
2 cups of frozen fruit
1 cup of coconut milk.  



Put in blender in that order.  Greens, fresh fruit, frozen fruit, liquid.  
This makes sure the greens are well blended and the frozen fruit doesn't all freeze together in the liquid.  It takes longer to blend and you have to stop and break it up.  I have a cheap blender so that may not be a problem if you have a nicer one.
No need for ice because of the frozen fruit.



**A Tip**
If you don't like the taste of greens or this is your first time experimenting with them, go with spinach.  Kale is so good for you but it is harder to cover up the taste.  Usually a good ripe banana will cover the taste of it.  My husband isn't a huge fan of the kale and would rather have spinach only.  Or you could add a little honey and an extra banana too!  I bet that would take care of it!  After drinking them for a while though you can start to add more greens.  

Experiment with your favorite fruits!  I feel as though it's the banana that covers up the "green" taste. As long as that banana is in there you can't go wrong!

Now you know how, but here's why!

Spinach:

fiber in spinach helps curve overeating, prevents constipation, aids in digestion, and keeps blood sugar low
fights against cancer and heart disease
packed with antioxidants
can lower blood pressure
contributes to glowing skin
boost immune system

Kale:

aids in digestion
helpful for your immune system, metabolism, and hydration
high in calcium, has more per calorie than milk
has more iron than beef
helps protect against cancer
great cardiovascular support and can help lower cholesterol


Hope you enjoy!  How do you make your smoothies? 

happy homemaking, 
April